So you want your pet to be a Hollywood star? But how do you get started? Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to fame and fortune, well for your pooch at least.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE AND MORE PRACTICE
Sure your dog can sit, shake and maybe even stay on a good day. But they better be prepared for much harder tests than that. Pets on a television or movie set will be expected to perform a certain amount of basic tasks and be able to concentrate in a busy, hectic environment. And they might be expected to listen to different trainers. One prominent agency, Hollywood Paws®, recommends that you first aim to have your dog pass the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizenship test. This test emphasizes obedience, agility and performance. This is a good place to start to make sure your dog will be able to learn basic commands.
SOCIALIZATION
Other agencies like the Animal Actors Agency stress the importance of exposing your pet to interesting and challenging environments and having them spend time around other pets and people. Try seeing how your pet acts when other people are in charge of him. You’ll be handing your dog over to trainers in many situations, so they need to be comfortable with anything you throw at them.
THE MUST HAVE LOOK
There are certain breeds that are more desirable in the biz than others: retrievers, labradors, collies, and bulldogs are some of the most popular. But no need to fret; plenty of people want your lovable little mutt as well. Just like human actors have to be chosen for a part, your pet will need to compete with all the other pups for the part. Everyone thinks their pets are the cutest, but you have to be able to catch the director’s eye!
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU FIND AN AGENCY
This is their business. You will represent their agency. So if you’re going to trust them enough to represent your pet, you better listen to what they have to say. Be prepared to undergo much more vigorous training. Your pets will need many more tricks, like being able to speak on command and following specific people. Then there are the headshots of course. Make sure your pet is well groomed for his photo shoot!
WHERE TO START YOUR SEARCH
1. Hollywood Paws
Takes cats and dogs and provides all the training you need. Experience includes: Hotel for Dogs, Legally Blonde 2, Miller Lite, Burger King, Verizon, Desperate Housewives, and many more.
2. Hollywood Animals’ Animal Actors Agency
Takes cats, dogs, and even more exotic animals like flamingos, horses, and lizards. Experience includes: The Whole 10 Yards, HBO’s Carnivale, Baby Gap, Petco, Purina, American Idol, and many more.
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